its current name, the Health & Fitness Association, in 2024. What began as a collaborative effort to bring together key players across the physical activity industry has evolved into the world’s only global trade association dedicated to health clubs and fitness studios. At the start, HFA’s goal was to professionalize the industry and establish consistent business standards. That purpose has expanded over time and now is focused on advocacy, education, and research with the goal of ensuring that exercise is seen as an essential part of the healthcare continuum.. CHAMPIONING THE INDUSTRY THROUGH ADVOCACY As the sole US trade association advocating for health and fitness facility operators, HFA leads the charge to protect, promote, and grow the industry across all levels of government. At the federal level, HFA works directly with lawmakers and regulatory agencies to shape policies that position fitness as a cornerstone of preventive health and reduce unnecessary regulatory and financial burdens on operators. At the state level, HFA’s advocacy has delivered measurable results—achieving nearly 50 legislative wins in 2024 alone. Some of these wins include more time for cancelation policies, liability protections, defeating sales taxes on gym memberships and much more. These outcomes reflect HFA’s ongoing engagement with policymakers to stop harmful proposals, modernize outdated laws, and reinforce the economic and health impact of fitness businesses in every community. This work is not only protecting the industry—it’s expanding its potential. By positioning fitness as essential infrastructure in the fight against chronic disease, HFA is helping unlock new public and private investment opportunities, from employer wellness benefits to government-backed programs for seniors and underserved populations. Internationally, HFA partners with global federations to align advocacy strategies on issues like music and television licensing that strengthen the industry worldwide. Whether in the United States or abroad, HFA ensures the fitness industry has a strong, unified voice to support its growth, credibility, and long-term value. 69 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 09 THE HEALTH AND FITNESS ASSOCIATION
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